3,832. No Steps for the Altar

Hilchos Beis HaBechirah 1:17

We may not make steps for the altar as per Exodus 20:23: “Do not ascend My Altar with steps.” Rather, we must build a ramp on the south side of the altar, reducing in height from the top of the altar to the ground. If someone were to ascend the altar with steps, he would be subject to the penalty of lashes. Similarly, if someone intentionally destroys even a single stone from the altar, from anywhere in the Heichal or from between the entry hall and the altar, he is subject to lashes. This is derived from Deuteronomy 12:3-4, which says, “You shall destroy their (the idolators’) altars.... Do not do likewise to Hashem, your God.”

Hilchos Beis HaBechirah 1:18

The Menorah and its utensils, the Table and its utensils, the incense altar, and all the various service vessels of the Temple must be made exclusively of metal. If they are made from wood, bone, stone or glass, they are unfit for use.